Resume Formats

Written by Adam Blau

If you are composing a resume for yourself, there are a number of different resume formats that can suit your needs, depending on a number of factors. If you are applying for an entry-level job, for example, you will likely choose a different format from someone who is writing an executive resume. While no one format is considered "correct," certain resume formats highlight particular strengths better than others.

Which Resume Formats Will Work For Me?

Before choosing a particular resume format, try to assess your prior experience and future goals. Are there specific items you would like to highlight? Are there gaps or weaknesses in your employment history? Make a list of these items you would like to emphasize or downplay, and then begin to consider some different resume formats.

If you have certain aspects of your history that you feel detract from your resume, there are numerous options to solve your quandary. If you were only at a prior job for a brief period of time, you should strongly consider omitting the months from your resume (for example, write "1997" instead of "May-June 1997"). If you are a recent student or someone with little work experience, you might consider using a "functional resume." This is a format that emphasizes what kinds of skills you possess rather than prior work experience.

If you have excelled in a specific area or achieved particular successes in the workplace, you might consider some resume formats that emphasize your accomplishments. It is not uncommon in such cases to include an "Accomplishments" section at the beginning of the resume. This is sure to attract a hiring manager's eye and highlight your strong abilities.